“We are delighted to announce the opening of this high ropes course at such a prestigious location,” comments Innovative Leisure’s Managing Director, Phil Pickersgill.

“It’s been a privilege to work with the Merlin Entertainments team over the past 2 years on a world’s first IP attraction. The course has a lot of progressive challenges designed into it, for all levels of ability, and also has plenty of repeat play potential. On peak days it will provide a vital ‘capacity engine’ for the ops team and certainly earn its keep. I’ve enjoyed seeing the many positive mentions already posted on TripAdvisor.”

According to Innovative Leisure, Grylls wanted the high ropes course to feature elements from the Royal Marine Commando Tarzan course at Commando Training Centre Royal Marines, Lympstone. The intention was to create a structure that not only challenges visitors physically but also mentally, the higher they go.

Towering course offers 36 different challenges

Offering 36 different challenges, the towering course takes participants to over 20m above the ground at the highest level. But, they have to earn the right to get there, as the elements become increasingly difficult the higher they go.

Highlights for adventurers are likely to be a Rolling Log on the top level which is particularly challenging and the Swinging Beam that moves all over as participants step on it. The Squid Steps challenge makes its first appearance in Europe. Guests access the high ropes course area via a heli-zip wire from The Bear Grylls Adventure Chinook helicopter.

The new course occupies a prime spot at the front of the attraction buildings, acting as an active billboard to draw potential guests in.

“With the growth in adventure, it’s a route we were keen to go down,” explains Mike Vallis, Divisional Director New Brands at Merlin Entertainments. “Bear had some fantastic ideas, and he understands the health and safety bit. He wants people to be challenged and not put in a dangerous position. The high ropes is a classic example. People are scared of heights and it’s a physical challenge, so it ticks two of the boxes, but it’s 100% safe.”